Yes, the chemo brain. I write... books, short stories. I am more than 5 years post chemo. This December I was finally able to write a short story draft in one sitting, then the next day did the edit and print. This was a fiction piece sent to my Great Niece as part of her Christmas gift. Still, more often than I would like, chemo brain hits. I find stress both physical and/or mental cause it to make a return visit. MRI shows some damage but drs, with the exception of my onco, attribute this to my age. Onco knows better. What I can say is that it has eased and this annoyance hits less often, but I expect it is now with me as a permanent disturbing reminder. Others I know who are 17 or 18 yrs out of treatment still deal with this as well. Give yourself some breathing room, let ALL of you heal a bit longer, just adjust and accommodate. I think at times that my body is just angry with me and what I have put it through. My body may continue to heal, I suspect the little grey cells may take a bit longer. Patience, I hear, is a virtue, which I must eventually learn. That, too, may take awhile! 😄

Regarding brain fog. Almost 2 yrs from radiation and now finally able to process better. This whole process takes so much out of you emotionally and physically. I still miss my energizer bunny energy. The whole process ages you. How could it not? It is a lonely process throughout and does take time.

I grew up in a stressful situation- and though I didn't stutter, I could stammer when put on the spot. I found I was doing more of that with the chemo brain, because of not being able to think of the word I wanted, etc. As I found ways to deal with the brain fog- the stammer improved. I think it will always be part of my reaction to unexpected, immediate stress. but it is back to pre-chemo levels! Hang in there- if this is something totally outside your normal experiences, keep track of when, how often, etc. and share with your team! Hugs!

It is frustrating! I think we are all prepared to lose a little with age- but cancer is a gut punch in so many ways! Hugs!